In
writing the introduction to this, the first of - I hope - many Annual Handbooks,
I would like to give an explanation of its origin and purpose. The idea, of
recording what is happening each year in our town, was first suggested at a
Community Council meeting in March. After the Council had discussed and approved
the project in principle, a sub-committee consisting of four Community
Councilors was formed to organise the production of the Handbook. The first task
of the sub-committee was to apply for a grant to Strathclyde Regional Council
and we are very grateful for their support. The next step was to invite all the
clubs and organisations in Maybole to contribute articles and photo-graphs
relating to their origins and yearly activities.
Maybole is changing from year to year, not only in its physical form, but in the make-up of its townsfolk - people leave for other parts, people come to live and set-up home. So, I hope this book will be of interest to all those associated with Maybole, whether past or present, and that it will be a record for the future.
I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to this issue but especially D. Kiltie, A. Murray and J. Gray, from the Community Council; Mr A. Gray, photographer, who gave us permission for many of the photographs included in the Handbook to be published; the Ayr Advertiser who allowed us to "rake through their files" for photographs and information; 819 Squadron, HMS Gannet; the staff of Carnegie Library, Ayr; and Mrs Betty Andrews for her invaluable assistance in typing articles prior to their being forwarded to the printers.
If any organisation has not been mentioned in this edition and would like to be next year, please contact the Community Council. We are anxious that as many groups as possible are included and will do everything we can to help.
In conclusion, may I ask everyone who contributed to do so again next year, as the success of the Maybole Handbook depends upon the people of Maybole.
J. K. McDERMOTT, Sub-committee Chairman.